Program Definitions

We foster a non-competitive riding environment. Riders and instructors encourage each other to expand both their knowledge of theory and riding so they may excel in whatever riding orientation they choose. Whether it be showing, trails, dressage, or in their backyard, you can be reassured that your rider will have a safe, solid foundation.

HORSEMASTERS

Horsemasters spend half their day at the barn, Monday through Friday, caring for and riding horses. They receive a daily one hour lesson in dressage, jumping, trails and Centered Riding techniques. The combined emphasis expands rider experiences, skills, and confidence, not becoming expert in one specific area.

Riders are matched to horses appropriate for their riding level. Often they ride more than one horse during the course of their camp stay. Much depends on their skill level. They have the opportunity to care for and love a horse if they are interested in doing so.

Beginner, intermediate, advanced riders are welcome in the Horsemaster Program. Riding instruction meets rider skills appropriately. Remaining half day is spent in traditional activities. This program is enjoyed by those who like time to read, hike, enjoy some art, play tennis, swim, boat, and put flexibility in their day.

Horse Care Clarification

Horse care as defined throughout the website means mucking stalls, grooming, tacking up and untacking, washing or brushing horses down after a ride, and sharing the responsibilities of feeding the horses. Our attempt is to get riders in touch with the overall work involved with horse ownership and safe, responsible, caring horsemanship. Fact is, we do not do the work for you. We are there to guide you in safe horse management. Most important: Sprucelands is a teaching facility.

Check out Riding Evaluations on Opening Day

 

ACCELERATED HORSEMASTERS

Accelerated Horsemasters ride two hours each day, Monday through Friday. Lessons are generally 60-75 minutes in length. Because this is a combined training effort, riders have lessons each week in centering techniques, dressage, jumping, and trail rides. There is not a strong focus on any one skill. The emphasis is on experiencing various seats based on centering and balance.

This program is limited to 15 riders per session, and it is open to riders staying two weeks or longer. You may be a rider at any level as long as your interest, dedication, and willingness to work is in place. Includes horse care: cleaning stalls, grooming, tacking up and untacking. More advanced Accelerated Horsemasters also enjoy learning how to teach riding to other campers.

Please note: the Accelerated Program is not an advanced program. It simply gives you extra riding time. It means a rider may ride twice a day. Beginner through advanced riders participate in the Accelerated Program. Because spaces are limited, register for the Accelerated Program quickly. Cost for the program: $130 extra per week.

We want you to get the riding program of your choice. (Accelerated Program open to those campers staying a minimum of two weeks.)

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